Most people don’t really think about their roof, until there is a leak! What many of us don’t realize is that a leak could be due to many different roofing problems, including missing shingles, flashing, damaged fascia board, and other issues. If you think you have a roof leak, how can you determine whether a roof repair will solve the problem or the house needs a roof replacement?
Here are a few warning signs to look for that might indicate it is time for a new roof:
1. Check your home improvement records: A good first step would be to review your home improvement records to see how long ago the roof was replaced or re-shingled. Knowing when a roof was installed (and what it’s made of) offers insight into how much life it has left. For instance, a typical asphalt shingle roof lasts 20 to 25 years, while a roof installed over an existing layer of shingles should be replaced after 20 years.
2. Daylight through the roof boards: If you think you might need a new roof, it’s a good idea to check your attic. Look for beams of light coming through the top of the house or stains and streaks, which signal a leaky roof.
3. Check shingles: Keep an eye on your rooftop to make sure it’s still in good shape, especially after heavy storms. Shingles should lie flat against the roof; if you find patches that are cracked, damaged, or buckling, then repairs are in order. Regardless of the number of shingles that are broken or missing, you need to contact a roof repair service. Shingles are the protective layer between your attic and the outdoor elements. While you’re at it, be sure to check the gutters and downspouts for shingle granules—a roof that is losing a lot of granules may be at the end of its useful life.
4. Examine the flashing: The flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys seals the seams of the roof from rain and weather. Examine these points make sure there are no cracks or breaks, which could lead to leaks. In older homes, flashing is often made of roof cement or tar, but it’s a good idea to upgrade to a metal flashing system for added durability.
5. Moisture/rotting boards: A droopy, sagging roof is one that surely needs replacing before further damage occurs to your home. Check the surface for signs of trapped moisture, rotting boards, or sagging spots—especially at the lowest points in the roof. Damaged flashing – When your flashing is damaged, it’s likely that your roof will have suffered damage, too. Moisture damage often is the result of damaged flashing.
6. Moss: Plant growth is never a good thing when it’s happening on your roof. Be especially wary of moss that’s growing on your shingles, since it traps in moisture.
Contact K & M Roofing and Contracting Today for Roof Repair or Replacement
If your roof has been properly installed and is younger than 15 or 20 years old, it may get by with repairs rather than a full replacement. If you need roofing services, K&M Roofing and Contracting LLC is the roofing contractor of choice due to our experience and our use of weather rated products with the roofing system warranty. Contact us today for a free estimate.
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